Pitfalls & Challenges in Urban Tree Planting

January 21, 2015

We all know the importance of trees in our cities, however urban trees are often neglected and do not receive the appropriate care they require in urban settings. Each of these photos tell a story of neglect, disregard, or simple lack of knowledge.

Learning from both our own and others’ mistakes is imperative if we are to pursue the goal of increasing urban tree canopy cover in our cities.

Inappropriate product selection can blight the results

This tree guard is killing the very thing it was supposed to protect

A healthy tree: With the right product selection urban trees can thrive

A healthy tree: With the right product selection urban trees can thrive

Makeshift and untidy – a home for rats and mice

A healthy tree with appropriate irrigation measures

Pavement heave due to improper root management

With proper root management, the area around trees will be free of pavement heave

Insufficient rooting volume caused these trees to be cut down

Trees will flourish with sufficient uncompacted rooting volume

Poor planting techniques harm trees

This tree died due to poor drainage and was removed

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